BusinessMore Flight Attendants Take United’s Buyout Than Airline Had Expected

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More Flight Attendants Take United’s Buyout Than Airline Had Expected

Tuesday, November 18, 2014 at 8:19 am | כ"ה חשון תשע"ה

CHICAGO (Chicago Tribune/TNS) -

Tuesday, November 18, 2014 at 8:19 am | כ"ה חשון תשע"ה

About 2,500 United flight attendants opted for individual buyouts of up to $100,000, the airline said.

That’s about 400 more flight attendants than the airline had expected would take its offer, but all will be accommodated, a United spokeswoman said.

In September, United said it would offer some flight attendants buyout packages as it recalls flight attendants who are on voluntary and involuntary furlough. United has 1,450 flight attendants on furlough.

United, which has more flight attendants than it wants, offered lump-sum payouts of up to $100,000 for those who apply for the early out and meet certain service and eligibility qualifications. They had until the end of October to apply for the buyouts.

The company awards early outs in seniority order.

Flight attendants represented by the Association of Flight Attendants are in contract negotiations with the airline.

A United spokeswoman has said the buyouts should have no impact on the flying public.